BBFC Chief Executive: Guest Blog

Posted on 20 April 2016

As entries to the Childnet Film Competition start to come in, we catch up with David Austin from the BBFC who shares why they support the competition that inspires young people to get creative to inspire their peers to #shineonline.

David Austin OBE is the Chief Executive of the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC). David makes executive decisions on behalf of the Board of Classification and is responsible for BBFC policies, management of the BBFC and external relations with the industry, the public and other relevant organisations.

Sharing why the BBFC supports the Childnet Film Competition, David said:

“Protecting children from unsuitable content is key to the BBFC’s role and the Childnet Film Competition is an engaging and creative way of encouraging children to think about online safety issues, while learning how to produce their own short films. The BBFC has an active education programme and encourages young people to engage with film and film making as a vehicle for learning, creativity and enjoyment”.

David shares why film is so important to teach important messages:

“Film is an inspiring medium for all ages and for children in particular it brings to life important messages and in making their own films, it allows them to express themselves in a less conventional way than say writing an essay in the classroom. Engaging children in this way creates a memorable experience and helps them take on board ideas and information.”

And as a judge right from the very beginning of the Childnet Film Competition, David shares what he has enjoyed most:

“The Childnet Film Competition always delivers a very diverse and thoughtful array of short films. It is endlessly rewarding to see children of all ages work in groups, and on their own, to bring their ideas or thoughts on an issue to life through film”.

Find out more and enter now:

Download your competition pack and submit your entries by 13 June to have a chance to win great prizes and see your film on the big screen at the BFI in London!